July means summer in Banff! The temperatures are at their highest, and the park is at its most beautiful. On top of that, all restaurants, shops, campgrounds, lodges, and hotels are open. Hence, visiting Banff in July is an excellent decision. You can simply take advantage of everything the park has to offer in the summer.
While every month has something specific to offer, July is, without a doubt, the best month to visit the park. There are dozens and dozens of tours available, all hiking and biking trails are accessible, all roads are open, there are festivals, the nightlife is thriving, and temperatures are high enough to swim in a lake or two.
I suppose those are enough reasons to learn more about what Banff National Park has to offer in July. So let’s dive in!
Is Banff Worth Visiting in July?
That’s a no-brainer, as the introduction to this article should have made clear. Summer has come, the perfect time to discover all the beauty and outdoor adventures Banff National Park has to offer.
However, all months have their specific pros and cons. I listed them below to give you a balanced perspective on visiting Banff in July.
The Pros and Cons of Visiting Banff in July
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| 1. Warm weather and extended daylight: July is one of the warmest months in Banff, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports. The average temperature in Banff during August is around 20°C (68°F), which is comfortable for most outdoor activities. And the month has about 16 hours of daylight. | 1. Crowds: July is one of the busiest months to visit Banff National Park, which means that you will encounter crowds at popular attractions or on popular trails. You may need to plan ahead and arrive early to avoid these crowds. This is especially true for Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. |
| 2. Wildflowers are in bloom: July is when the wildflowers are in full bloom, creating a beautiful and colorful landscape. You can see a variety of wildflowers, including Indian paintbrush, fireweed, and lupine. | 2. Higher prices: July is considered peak season in Banff National Park, which means that prices for accommodations, tours, and activities may be higher than during shoulder season. |
| 3. Hiking: July is an excellent time to go hiking in Banff National Park, as many trails are open and the weather is ideal. You can explore the park’s natural beauty on foot and enjoy stunning views. | 3. Limited availability: With the high demand in July, accommodations, tours, and activities may have limited availability or require advanced reservations. You may need to plan ahead and book early to ensure availability. |
| 4. Abundant wildlife: You are more likely to spot wildlife in July, as animals are more active during the warmer months. You can see animals like elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and even bears. | 4. Unpredictable weather: While July can offer great weather, it can also bring unpredictable weather patterns, such as sudden thunderstorms or hail. |
| 5. Water Activities: In July, you can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding in Banff’s lakes and rivers. The warmer weather makes it more comfortable to be on the water. In some lakes you can even swim. | 5. Limited access to some trails: Some higher-elevation trails in Banff National Park may still be closed in July due to snow and ice, which can limit your hiking options. You may need to stick to lower-elevation trails. |
| 6. Longer hours for attractions: In July, many attractions in Banff National Park have longer hours, which means more time to enjoy them. | 6. Higher risk of bear encounters: With the warmer temperatures, bears may be more active in July, which can increase the risk of bear encounters in Banff National Park. Make sure you take bear spray with you. |
| 7. Camping: July is a great time for camping in Banff National Park, with many campgrounds open and offering scenic and convenient locations. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the park while sleeping under the stars. | 7. Mosquitoes: With the warmer temperatures and increased moisture, July can also bring a higher risk of mosquito bites in Banff National Park. You may need to bring insect repellent and protective clothing to avoid bites. |
| 8. Photography: July is a great time for photography in Banff National Park, with clear skies, vibrant colors, and abundant wildlife. | 8. Traffic and parking: With the high number of visitors in July, traffic and parking can be challenging in Banff National Park. You may need to plan your trip carefully or arrive early to secure a parking spot. |
| 9. Picknicking: The warmer weather makes it a great time to enjoy a picnic or outdoor barbecue. | 9. Noise and congestion: With the high number of visitors in July, noise and congestion can be an issue in Banff National Park, particularly in popular areas like Lake Louise or Moraine Lake. |
| 10. Stargazing: July is a great time for stargazing in Banff National Park, with clear skies and minimal light pollution offering great views of the night sky. You can enjoy the beauty of the stars and constellations. | 10. Increased stress: With the crowds, noise, and other challenges of visiting Banff National Park in July, it can also bring increased stress and anxiety. |
Weather in Banff in July
Knowing what weather to expect is essential for planning a Banff trip. Although, with July’s summer temperatures, you can’t go wrong, really. July has warm and often even hot days throughout.
Average Temperature in Banff in July
July in Banff has an average high temperature of 21.6°C (70.9˚F). The daily mean temperature is 14.5˚C (58.1˚F). On the other hand, the average low is 7.3˚C (45.1˚F). This means it can be chilly at night and also in the morning. You’ll want to wear a sweater for sure!
Snowfall and Precipitation in Banff in July
The good news: In July, it doesn’t snow. At least, it’s not likely at all. Which makes sense, of course, as it’s summer. But you’re in the Rockies, and the weather can change suddenly. It might snow in unusual circumstances. I know, because I’ve actually seen it snow in July!
Furthermore, July has an average of 17.5 rainfall days. Together these days are worth an average of 76 millimeters of rain.
Wanna know more about the climate in the park? Check out the post discussing everything about the weather in Banff National Park.
What to Pack for Banff in July
Packing for Banff National Park in July means packing for warm and sometimes hot days, depending on when you’ll be visiting during this month.
Clothing
When visiting Banff in July, Pack your summer wardrobe. Shorts, polos, T-shirts, you should pack them all. In any case, bring lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for layering. Despite the superb weather, you might also want to pack a rain jacket or waterproof shell.
I also recommend taking one or two (fleece) sweaters. The evenings and (early) mornings can be pretty cold. The same goes for visiting higher altitude locations like Lake Louise or Peyto Lake. There, the temperature will be lower than in the Bow Valley.
Also, take long pants. Besides protecting you against the cold, long pants protect against insects like mosquitoes and black flies.
Gear
Aside from appropriate clothing, you’ll also want to pack some gear. Here are the items you should consider bringing:
- Daypack to carry water, snacks, and extra layers
- Sunglasses and hat/cap to protect against the sun
- A camera to capture the stunning scenery
- Physical map (cell phone reception in the park is spotty)
Accessories
Don’t forget to pack some accessories to make your trip to Banff more comfortable. Here are some items worth considering for a trip to Banff in July:
- Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Small first aid kit for emergencies
- Sunblock and UV-blocking lip balm to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays
- Safety gear such as a compass, knife, and bear spray if you plan to hike or bike
- Insect repellent
Things to Do in Banff in July
July is synonymous with summer in Banff, and this means that there are many, many, many summer activities to engage in. Think hiking, biking, canoeing, horseback riding, golfing, swimming, climbing, diving, fishing, et cetera, et cetera. I listed them for you below.
Outdoor Swimming in Banff in July
July is suited for some relaxed outdoor swimming. By now, the water has warmed enough to swim in Cascade Ponds, Johnson Lake and Herbert Lake. Because they are not glacially fed they warm up considerably faster.
While swimming is permitted in lakes such as Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake, and Lake Louise, the water is far too frigid for a splash. You risk cold shock and hypothermia if you plunge in.
Wanna know more about swimming opportunities in the park? Read my comprehensive guide to swimming in Banff.
Hiking in Banff in July
While it’s not yet the perfect time of the year for hiking in Banff, the park has many hiking opportunities in July. However, many trails in July can be very wet due to melted snow, making them slippery and muddy.
The good news is that you have many, many, many trails to choose from. Banff National Park has over 1,600 kilometers (994 mi) of trails, with options for all skill levels.
Some popular trails include the Johnston Canyon Trail, the Tunnel Mountain Trail, the Fenlands Trail, the Lake Agnes Tea House Hike, and the Spray River Loop.
Hike to the Summit of Cascade Mountain
The hike to the summit of Cascade Mountain (the mountain rising above the north end of Banff Avenue) is an excellent choice for hikers looking for a challenge.
This gratifying trip is not to be taken lightly. Starting at the Norquay Mountain parking lot, the trail is just over 18 kilometers (11.18 mi) out and back, with an elevation gain of over 1,600 meters.
Along the way, you’ll encounter many stunning views. The trail can be steep and rocky in some sections, and there’s scree close to the top, so ensure you have proper hiking boots and plenty of water and snacks.
Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding area. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience. Guaranteed!
Want to read more about this particular hike? I wrote a post about my experience of summiting Cascade Mountain.
Biking in Banff in July
Banff National Park has several paved and unpaved bike trails that you can explore on two wheels. One popular route is the Legacy Trail, a 27 kilometers (16.77 mi) paved trail between Banff and Canmore. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Highly recommended!
Ride the Banff Legacy Trail
The Banff Legacy Trail is a 26.8 kilometer (16.65 mi) long, 3-meter-wide paved trail that connects the communities of Banff and Canmore. Along the way, you’ll encounter plenty of stunning views and inconic mountains Like Cascade Mountain.
The trail at the bottom of the Bow Valley is well-maintained, and undulation is minimal. There are plenty of rest spots and picnic areas along the way, so you can take a break and enjoy a snack while enjoying the views.
Wanna read more about this topic? Read my post on biking in Banff.
Fishing in Banff in July
Banff National Park has many lakes and rivers stocked with rainbow, brown, and brook trout. The fishing season is in full swing in July, and you can cast your line in many bodies of water. Remember to purchase a fishing license and follow the regulations.
Wanna know more about this subject? Check out my comprehensive guide to fishing in Banff National Park.
Canoeing and Kayaking in Banff in July
Banff National Park has several lakes and rivers you can explore by canoe or kayak. The water may still be cold in July, but the scenery is oh-so-worth it. Some popular spots for paddling include Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Bow River.
Check out my post on water activities in Banff National Park to learn more.
Rafting in Banff in Banff in July
Rafting in the Rockies is an exhilarating experience. The area surrounding Banff National Park is home to some of the best whitewater rafting in Canada.
Tour companies offer guided rafting trips on the Kicking Horse River, the Bow River, and the Kananaskis River. It’s a fantastic tour for couples and groups of friends.
Wanna know more? Read my post about rafting in the Rockies around Banff.
Golfing in Banff in July
July is a great time to go golfing in Banff, as the weather is warm and sunny, with low rainfall. Banff is home to some of the most scenic golf courses in the world, offering stunning views of the Canadian Rockies.
You can play the 18-hole Stanley Thompson and 9-hole Tunnel Mountain courses in Banff. Both offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Golfing is a popular leisure activity in July, so book tee times beforehand.
Wanna read more about golfing in Banff? Read the ultimate guide to Golfing at the Banff Springs Golf Course.
Visit the Hot Springs in Banff in July
After a day of outdoor activities, relax in Banff’s famous hot springs. The Banff Upper Hot Springs are just a few minutes from downtown Banff and offer stunning views of the Rockies.
The hot springs are open daily from 10 am to 10 pm. Highly recommended!
Wanna know more about the soothing effect of hot springs? Check out my comprehensive post on hot springs in the Banff area.
Visit Banff’s Famous Lakes in July
Banff National Park’s famous lakes are the area’s biggest summer attractions. Lake Louise, Peyto Lake, Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake and Johnson Lake, just to name a few, are all accessible and visible in their full glory.
Can You Visit Lake Louise in July?
July is a great time to visit Lake Louise, but you’ll have to share the stunning views with big crowds. At the lake, you can go on some lovely hikes, and have lunch at the Lake Agnes Tea House, for instance.
The lake is so popular that in recent years the parking problems at the lake in summer have only increased. This means you will have to get there early (6 am or even earlier) to secure a parking spot. If you plan on coming later during the day, you need to book a shuttle bus ticket in advance.
Can You Visit Moraine Lake in July?
You sure can. Just be prepared for big throngs of tourists at Moraine Lake, that rivals Lake Louise in beauty. At the lake, you can climb on the big rock pile at the north end shore, or do some hiking. And of course enjoy the stunning scenery!
PLEASE NOTE: You will need to hop on a shuttle bus to Moraine Lake. Due to limited parking availability and the popularity of the lake, Parks Canada doesn’t allow you to park your vehicle in the Moraine Lake parking lot.
Can You Visit Peyto Lake in July?
Yes, you can visit Peyto Lake in July. During this month, the lake shows its famous turquoise color in full glory. Count on lots of tourists during this time of the year. However, due to Peyto Lake’s 2021 parking lot extension, you shouldn’t encounter too many problems parking here.
Wanna know more about the lakes in Banff? Read the post on Banff’s 14 most beautiful and accessible lakes.
Do a Helicopter Tour in Banff in July
If you want to see Banff from a different perspective, consider taking a helicopter tour. Helicopter tours offer breathtaking views of the Rockies and are a great way to see Banff’s stunning scenery from above.
Some popular helicopter tour companies include Alpine Helicopters and Rockies Heli Canada.
Wanna read more about helicopter tours in the park? Check out the Ultimate Experience: Book a Helicopter Tour in Banff.
Wildlife Viewing in Banff in July
Visiting Banff in July offers an excellent opportunity to witness the park’s wildlife. You can see elk, deer, bighorn sheep, moose, and, of course, bears.
Banff’s wildlife is active and visible during this time of year. To improve your chances to see wildlife drive along the park’s scenic roads early in the morning or late in the evening when animals are most active.
The Bow Valley Parkway, Vermilion Lakes Drive, and the Icefields Parkway are popular spots for wildlife viewing. A unique option to see wildlife is by taking a guided canoe or kayak tour.
Wanna make sure to see wildlife during your stay in Banff? Book a wildlife tour! Read my post on the 8 best wildlife tours in Banff National Park to find out which suits you best.
Enjoy Scenic Views in Banff in July
Visiting Banff National Park in July means that you’ll be able to see its breathtaking landscapes in full glory. The mountains, lakes, rivers, and forests provide a picture-perfect backdrop, urging you to take pictures!
Driving around the park will already provide countless vistas, each more stunning than the last. You won’t be disappointed.
Drive the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A)
This Bow Valley Parkway is a classic Banff drive. This road is just 48 km long and offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including the nearby mountains and forests.
Along the way, you’ll encounter plenty of roadside pullouts where you can stop and take in the views. You might even spot some wildlife, like elk or bears, if you’re lucky.
Banff has several scenic drives worth exploring. Want to know more about it? Check my post on Banff’s 7 scenic drives to explore.
Take an Open Top Tour in Banff in May
Taking an open top tour in Banff National Park in May is a unique way to experience the Canadian Rockies. These vintage tours with a modern twist offer a historic-style sightseeing adventure in an open-top vehicle.
You can hop on the Legendary Banff Tour, which offers breathtaking views and informative commentary.
Where to Stay in Banff in July
Banff has many lodging options as a major tourist destination in North America. Check out your possibilities below.
Hotels and Lodges in Banff in July
Banff has plenty of options if you’re looking for a more traditional hotel or lodge experience.
The Banff Springs Hotel is one of the most iconic hotels in the area, offering a range of luxurious amenities, including a spa, several bars and restaurants, and stunning views of the mountains.
The same goes for the Fairmont Château Lake Louise.
The Rimrock Resort Hotel is another popular option with amenities like a spa, indoor pool, and several restaurants. Like the Banff Springs Hotel, the Rimrock is just a few minutes from downtown Banff.
For a more rustic experience, the Storm Mountain Lodge is a great option. The lodge is located about an hour outside the town of Banff, but it offers a range of cozy cabins and lodges, as well as a restaurant that serves up delicious meals made with all Canadian ingredients.
Hostels and Campgrounds in Banff in July
If you’re traveling on a budget, several hostels and campgrounds in the Banff area offer affordable accommodation options. The Samesun Banff is one of the most popular hostels in the area, offering a range of dorm and private rooms and a communal kitchen and lounge area.
The Tunnel Mountain Campground is another popular option for budget travelers. The campground has tent and RV campsites and is only a short distance from the heart of Banff. In July, all campgrounds are open for the season, giving you plenty of options.
Want to read about your options for camping in the park? Check the post, the Ultimate Overview of Campgrounds in Banff National Park.
Getting Around Banff in Banff in July
Car Rental in Banff in July
Without a doubt, the best way to get around Banff in July is by renting a car. This will give you the most flexibility in terms of where you can go and when you can go there.
Banff has several car rental companies, including Budget, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Hertz, Alamo and Avis. Prices can vary, so I’d suggest you shop around and compare prices before making a reservation.
Public Transportation in Banff in July
If you don’t want to rent a car, several public transportation options are available in Banff. Roam Transit operates year-round and serves Banff, Canmore, and Lake Louise.
In July, several bus routes can take you to popular destinations, such as Banff Gondola, Lake Louise, and Johnston Canyon.
Check the Roam Transit website for the latest information.
Taxis in Banff in July
Taxis are a good option if you need to get somewhere quickly and don’t want to wait for public transportation. Banff has two taxi companies, Banff Taxi and Taxi Taxi.
Prices can vary depending on the distance you need to travel and the time of day, so ask for an estimate before you get in the cab.
In any case, cabs are expensive in Canada. Just so you know.
Festivals and Events in Banff in July
July is the park’s most busy month of the year. There are several festivals and events. Here’s a list of some of the most popular events:
Despite July being a relatively quiet month in the park, you can still attend exciting festivals and events. Here’s a list:
Banff Summer Arts Festival
The Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity in the town of Banff hosts the annual Banff Summer Arts Festival. This arts and culture event presents about 150 activities, including musical performances, visual art exhibitions, mountain movies, and new media presentations through August.
The festival features various programs, including classical and contemporary music, dance, drama, opera, and visual arts. It draws artists, performers, and spectators from all over the world.
Canada Day in Banff (July 1st)
Celebrate Canada’s birthday with processions and concerts in Downtown Banff and Canmore. There are also fireworks displays in both towns in the evening. You can also participate in various activities and events throughout the day.
The Downtown Pedestrian Zone will be transformed into an entertainment and activity space.
Furthermore, you can attend the Canada Day Parade during Canada Day in Banff. It winds its way through the town and along Banff Avenue. It’s one of the highlights of Canada Day. The parade features floats, marching bands, and other performers.
Banff Farmers Market (Wednesdays)
The Banff Farmers Market takes place every Wednesday from May to October in Central Park. Here you can find fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts from local vendors.
Wanna read more about markets you can visit? Read my post on markets in the Bow Valley.
Statutory Holidays in Banff in July
It’s beneficial to be aware of the statutory holidays in July because many people flock to the park during these times of the year. As a result, hotel occupancy rates increase, and restaurants are more likely to be fully booked.
The following statutory holidays are celebrated in Banff in July 2023:
- Canada Day (Saturday, 1 July)
Visiting Banff in July FAQ
What’s the Best Time of the Year to Visit Banff?
Banff is a beautiful destination year-round, so the best time to visit really depends on your interests and what you want to do while you’re there.
If you’re interested in hiking and outdoor activities, then June through Mid-September are a great time to visit. The weather is warm and the days are long, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore the area’s trails and lakes.
If you’re interested in skiing and winter sports, then the winter months of December through March are the best time to visit. The snow is at its best during this time, and you’ll have three ski resorts in the area to choose from.
WEATHER IN BANFF, CANADA: AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
When Is the Shoulder Season in Banff?
The shoulder season in Banff is typically in the spring and fall months. During this time, the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower, making it a great time to visit if you’re looking for a more affordable and peaceful vacation.
The months of May and September are particularly good times to visit, as the weather is not too cold or even pleasant and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
What Time Does it Get Dark in Banff in July?
In July, the days are very long in Banff. The sun sets between 10.00 pm (1 July) and 9.30 pm (31 July), so you’ll have a lot of daylight time to discover everything the park has to offer.
Can You Go to Banff in July?
Absolutely! July is actually one of the best times to visit Banff. It’s summertime in the Canadian Rockies, and the weather is warm and sunny with long days. It makes it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the many lakes and trails in the area.
It’s also a great time to view the turquoise glacier lakes, such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Just keep in mind that July is peak season in Banff, so it can be quite busy. It’s a good idea to book your accommodations and activities in advance to ensure availability.
When Is the Skiing Season in Banff?
The skiing season in Banff typically runs from late November through early May, depending on the weather and snow conditions. The peak season for skiing is usually in January and February, when the snow is at its best and the ski resorts are busiest.
However, there are plenty of opportunities to ski and snowboard throughout the entire season, so you can plan your visit based on your schedule and preferences.
Banff Travel Guide
Where Is Banff National Park, Canada?
Banff National Park is in the southwest of the province of Alberta. It’s home to the towns of Banff and Lake Louise and borders the province of British Columbia in the west of Canada. You can easily access famous places like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake and the stunning Icefields Parkway from these locations.
Banff and Lake Louise are situated in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta, close to the boundary with British Columbia, as shown on the map of Banff National Park below.
Is Banff, Canada safe?
Generally speaking, yes. Like most areas, Banff has crime, but it’s still a safe travel place. But Banff has a lot of wildlife, including bears and cougars, so you should always carry bear spray and exercise caution when hiking in the mountains.
How Do I travel to Banff, Canada?
Want to fly to Banff? Calgary International Airport (Code: YYC) is the closest airport. It’s 130 kilometers (81 mi) to the east of Banff.
Several cities, including Toronto, Chicago, Seattle, and Dallas/Fort Worth, have direct flights into Calgary.
Pick up a rental vehicle at Calgary International Airport, or take a private transport service to your destination. The trip to the park takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Viator has several good options. Click the link to check the options and latest rates.
Banff Car Rental
Want to rent a car during your stay in Banff National Park? Rent one at Calgary International Airport or in the city of Calgary. Yep, there are rental firms in Lake Louise and Banff, but as these are small towns, your rental options can be limited.
Avis is a reputable car rental company, which I’ve used many times. Book now with Avis.
Banff Travel Planning Guide
Do I need a visa for Banff?
Most likely not. Citizens of the US, most European countries, Australia and New Zealand don’t need a visa to enter Canada. Not sure? Click the link to see whether you need a visa or not. The typical length of stay in Canada for people with visa-exempt passports is 90 days.
Do I need travel insurance for Banff?
You bet. Feel confident while traveling with a plan from Travel Insurance Master, one of the top names in travel insurance, for just USD 10 on average per day.
What’s the best way to book my Banff accommodation?
If you plan to book a hotel, hostel or bed & breakfast, Booking.com is your best bet. It has the most hotels listed and often offers the best rates.
Do I need to rent a car in Banf?
Absolutely. While Banff is one of the few national parks in North America with a sizeable public transport network, I strongly advise renting a car if you want to make the most of your visit.
Will my phone work in Banff?
It depends. In the towns of Banff and Lake Louise, you should have good to excellent reception. However, in more remote areas, the signal is spotty. In many places, there will be no signal at all.
What’s the best site to buy Banff flights?
If you’re looking for cheap flights to Banff, I recommend Skyscanner. No surprises with suddenly increased rates (for taxes, seats or luggage) upon checkout. What you see is what you get.
If visiting Banff in July isn’t your thing…
After reading this you might decide not to go to Banff in July after all. If so, check out the articles linked below about traveling to Banff during other months.